Topical Encyclopedia Prudence is a virtue highly esteemed in the biblical narrative, often associated with wisdom, discernment, and the ability to govern oneself with reason. It involves the capacity to judge and act appropriately in various situations, particularly in times of moral and spiritual challenge. The prudent individual is characterized by foresight, careful consideration, and the ability to navigate complex circumstances with a steady hand.Biblical Foundation of Prudence The Bible frequently extols the virtue of prudence, linking it closely with wisdom. In Proverbs 8:12 , wisdom personified declares, "I, wisdom, dwell together with prudence, and I find knowledge and discretion." This verse highlights the intrinsic connection between wisdom and prudence, suggesting that true wisdom cannot exist without the careful and judicious application of knowledge. Prudence in the Face of Evil Prudence is particularly significant in "the evil time," a phrase that denotes periods of moral decay, spiritual darkness, or societal upheaval. In such times, the prudent are called to exercise restraint and discernment, often choosing silence over rash speech or action. This is not a silence born of fear or apathy but a strategic pause that allows for reflection and the seeking of divine guidance. Amos 5:13 provides a poignant example: "Therefore, the prudent keep silent in such times, for the days are evil." This verse underscores the wisdom of withholding words in times of widespread corruption or injustice, recognizing that speaking out may not always lead to constructive outcomes. Instead, the prudent person waits for the opportune moment to act or speak, ensuring that their contributions are both timely and effective. Prudence and Speech The Bible frequently addresses the power of speech and the importance of controlling one's tongue. In James 1:19 , believers are admonished, "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger." This counsel aligns with the prudent approach to evil times, where listening and observing take precedence over immediate reaction. Proverbs 10:19 further advises, "When words are many, sin is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise." The prudent individual understands that excessive speech can lead to sin and that silence can be a form of wisdom, particularly when words may exacerbate a volatile situation. Prudence and Action While prudence often involves silence, it does not equate to inaction. The prudent are called to act with wisdom and discernment, choosing their battles wisely and ensuring that their actions align with God's will. In Ephesians 5:15-16 , believers are urged, "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This passage encourages the prudent to seize opportunities for good, even in challenging times, by living wisely and purposefully. Prudence as a Reflection of Faith Ultimately, prudence is a reflection of one's faith and trust in God. It requires a deep reliance on divine wisdom and an understanding that God's timing and purposes are perfect. The prudent individual seeks God's guidance in all things, confident that He will provide the necessary wisdom to navigate the complexities of life. In summary, prudence is a vital virtue for those who seek to live righteously in an evil time. It involves a careful balance of silence and action, guided by wisdom and a steadfast faith in God's sovereign plan. Torrey's Topical Textbook Amos 5:13Therefore the prudent shall keep silence in that time; for it is an evil time. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library The Sins of Society How the Silent and the Talkative are to be Admonished. Epistle Xliv. To Rusticiana, Patrician . 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Resources What are the seven cardinal virtues? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is a husbandman in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about common sense? | GotQuestions.org Prudence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Prudence in Avoiding his Enemies Prudence in Charging Those Who Were Healed not to "Advertise" his Miracles Prudence in Circumcising Timothy Prudence in Performing Temple Rites Prudence in Turning the Jewish Sects Against Each Other Prudence in Walking "No Longer Openly" Prudence of the Wicked: Defeated by God Prudence of the Wicked: Denounced by God Prudence of the Wicked: Fails in Times of Perplexity Prudence of the Wicked: Keeps Them from the Knowledge of the Gospel Prudence of the Wicked: Necessity For-Illustrated Prudence: Abigail, in Averting David's Anger Prudence: Achish, in Dismissing David Prudence: Aged Counsellors of Rehoboam Prudence: Avoiding Suspicion in Administering the Gifts of the Congregations Prudence: Certain Elders of Israel Prudence: David, in his Conduct Toward Saul Prudence: David, in Overthrowing Ahithophel's Shrewd Advice Prudence: Elijah, in his Escape from Jezebel Prudence: Exemplified by Christ Prudence: Exhibited in the Manifestation of God's Grace Prudence: General Scriptures Concerning Prudence: Going to the Feast Secretly Prudence: Intimately Connected With Wisdom Prudence: Jacob, in his Conduct Toward Esau Prudence: Jacob, Toward his Sons, After Dinah's Defilement Prudence: Jehoram, in Suspecting a Syrian Stratagem Prudence: Jethro's Advice to Moses Prudence: Joseph, in his Conduct Toward Mary Prudence: Joseph, in the Affairs of Egypt Prudence: Nehemiah, in Conduct of Affairs at Jerusalem Prudence: Paul and Barnabas, in Escaping Persecution Prudence: Paul and Silas, in Escaping from Berea Prudence: Peter, in Escaping from Herod Agrippa I Prudence: Saints should Especially Exercise, in Their Intercourse With Prudence: Saul, in not Killing the Jabesh-Gileadites Prudence: The Israelites, in the Threatened War With the Two and One-Half Tribes Prudence: The Town Clerk of Ephesus, in Averting a Riot Prudence: The Wise Celebrated For Prudence: The Young should Cultivate Prudence: They Who Have are Preserved by It Prudence: They Who Have: Crowned With Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Deal With Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Foresee and Avoid Evil Prudence: They Who Have: Get Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Keep Silence in the Evil Time Prudence: They Who Have: Look Well to Their Goings Prudence: They Who Have: Not Ostentatious of Knowledge Prudence: They Who Have: Regard Reproof Prudence: They Who Have: Suppress Angry Feelings Prudence: They Who Have: Understand the Ways of God Prudence: They Who Have: Understand Their own Ways Prudence: Virtuous Wives Act With Related Terms |
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